We review the Razer BlackShark Pro V3, an all-terrain for gaming

For at least 3 weeks these have been my main headsets and this is how I have played with them. I tell you everything in my analysis.

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The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro represents the pinnacle of Razer’s audio line, specifically designed for the eSports player and enthusiast seeking maximum performance and uncompromising comfort. This model, the third version in the series, has been updated with features that solidify its position in the high-end market. My review of this hardware (thanks Razer) is based on a technical and comparative analysis, validated by my personal experience. I’ll give you a spoiler: I won’t be switching to another headset anytime soon.

The BlackShark V3 Pro is an exceptionally well-crafted product that combines ultra-low latency of just 10 ms, hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC), a studio-quality microphone, and superior comfort. Although its weight has increased compared to its predecessor, the improvements in ergonomic design compensate for this increase, allowing for prolonged use without fatigue. The main drawbacks identified are its higher price and certain idiosyncrasies in the sound signature that require user configuration.

Razer BlackShark V3 Pro Features Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)

As you can see, I’ve had the pleasure of analyzing the previous model, the BlackShark V2 Pro, so I can compare both models with knowledge. The image illustrating this review is precisely both headsets in my possession.

Feature	Razer BlackShark V3 Pro	Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Weight:	367 g	331 g
Drivers:	Razer TriForce 50 mm 2nd gen biocellulose	Razer TriForce 50 mm titanium
Frequency Response:	12 Hz – 28 kHz	12 Hz – 28 kHz
Sensitivity:	108 dBSPL/mW at 1 kHz	100 dBSPL/mW at 1 kHz
Battery Life:	Up to 70 hours (2.4 GHz connection)	Up to 70 hours (2.4 GHz connection)
Connectivity:	Wireless 2.4 GHz / Bluetooth / USB / 3.5 mm	Wireless 2.4 GHz / Bluetooth / USB
Microphone:	Detachable HyperClear 12 mm full-band	Detachable HyperClear 9.9 mm wide-band
Noise Cancellation:	Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)	Passive isolation

Razer BlackShark V3 Pro Pros and Cons

Like any product that passes through my hands, and given that in this case, I’m facing it against the previous model, I’ll give you what I consider to be the strong points

Strong Points:

• First-class audio with hybrid ANC: Active noise cancellation, a novelty in the series, is highly effective for noisy environments.
• Combined wireless + Bluetooth audio: Allows listening to the game and taking calls or listening to music simultaneously.
• Great autonomy: Up to 70 hours of battery life, with fast charging that provides 6 hours of playtime in just 15 minutes.
• Multi-platform connectivity: The inclusion of a 3.5 mm port and complete connectivity makes it compatible with PC, consoles, and mobile devices.
• Excellent microphone: The detachable 12 mm microphone offers clear and crisp voice, ideal for team communication.
• Comfort and ergonomics: The materials and design, with viscoelastic foam ear cushions, allow for prolonged use without discomfort.

Things to Improve:

• Slightly elevated weight: With 367 g, it’s noticeably heavier than the previous model, although the ergonomic design compensates. I admit I feel comfortable with them.
• High price: It’s positioned in the luxury purchase range, above the V2 Pro.
• Need for equalization: For use outside of competitive games, the sound signature may require adjustments through software for a more natural sound.

Design, Ergonomics, and Comfort

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro retains the distinctive “pilot” aesthetic that has characterized the series since its origins. Its design is functional and minimalist, moving away from the flashy RGB LEDs and angular flourishes of other Razer products. The construction is based mainly on plastic, with wire hinges that may shorten its durability. However, Razer has subtly reinforced the hinges in the V3 Pro, making them more robust and smooth for a firmer size adjustment. The ear cups, although lacking full rotation, now rotate 15 degrees, allowing for a better fit to the ear angle.

The most notable aspect, which corroborates my personal experience, is the outstanding comfort of the headset for prolonged gaming sessions (I won’t tell you how many hours I’ve played Gears Reloaded without taking them off).

The oval-shaped ear cushions, made with viscoelastic Flowknit foam, completely envelop the ear (circumaural design) instead of resting on it, which is crucial in my case to avoid fatigue and pressure. This material, a micro-perforated fabric, is breathable and helps mitigate heat buildup, a common problem in many headsets. The ear cushions are not only soft to the touch but also resist wear and tear better than synthetic leather. Additionally, the headband features a wide, viscoelastic foam padding that adjusts to the shape of the head. Reviewers have rated it as one of the most comfortable headsets on the market, even for people who wear glasses.

They weigh more, but are more comfortable… WTF?

A point of in-depth analysis is the paradox between the weight increase and the perception of comfort. The BlackShark V3 Pro weighs 367 g, which represents a significant increase compared to the 331 g of the V2 Pro. This increase is mainly due to the incorporation of new components, such as the hybrid noise cancellation system (ANC) and the necessary circuitry for simultaneous connectivity. At first glance, a heavier headset might seem less comfortable. However, ergonomics is a multifaceted factor that doesn’t depend solely on weight.

The clamping force, for example, is crucial. Razer has reduced the clamping force in the V3 Pro, relieving pressure on the temples and jaw. By combining this softer clamping force with denser padding and the new ear cup rotation, Razer has managed to compensate for the added weight with a design that distributes the load more effectively, improving the overall feeling of comfort during extended use.

Final Experience How does the audio perform?

Let’s get to the part that concerns me the most, the audio. Here, I can tell you that the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro’s audio performance is based on the second generation of 50 mm TriForce biocellulose drivers. The patented design of these drivers allows individual adjustment of high, medium, and low frequencies, with the goal of achieving greater clarity and a richer response. The headset features an impressive frequency response of 12 Hz to 28 kHz, a range that far exceeds what the human ear can perceive, ensuring that no details are lost at either end of the spectrum.

For gaming, the headset excels thanks to the implementation of THX Spatial Audio (7.1.4) technology on PC, which offers millimeter-precise positioning. This feature is invaluable for competitive games, allowing for precise identification of enemy locations, from distant footsteps to the sound of a weapon reload. These headsets are natively compatible with spatial audio on other platforms, such as Tempest 3D Audio on PlayStation and Windows Sonic on Xbox.

I’ve really enjoyed the hybrid noise cancellation functionality (ANC) that uses up to four microphones to detect and filter out external noise. So, I can say that playing with them is a delight and yes, it’s noticeable compared to the previous model. Is it worth paying to upgrade? Absolutely.

I want to close this review with a couple of observations. The first is that I haven’t found headsets with a microphone that lives up to the standard. Don’t get me wrong, the audio from this microphone in-game is exceptional, but I use it for other things like recording videos, and that’s where you notice it feels canned. That, and the battery life, is perhaps the least positive aspect I can highlight about the product.